Meet the ReNforce Team

Jasmin Mendoza-Balmes

Social Media Manager

Meet Jasmin Mendoza-Balmes, the dedicated Social Media Manager at ReNforce, a non-profit organization where she has diligently served for over two years. With a profound commitment to fostering positive change, Jasmin firmly believes in the transformative potential of second chances. Her tenure at ReNforce has been a personal journey marked by a deep-seated belief in the impact of providing individuals with opportunities for rebuilding their lives.

Jasmin’s role encompasses a mission and goes beyond managing social media because she has a passion for bringing about change. Her commitment to ReNforce’s cause has allowed her to contribute to a cause greater than herself. Leveraging digital platforms, she has skillfully wielded them to amplify awareness about RenForce’s mission and the organization’s remarkable strides.

For Jasmin, this isn’t merely a job—it’s a calling. She sees it as an opportunity to serve as a voice for those seeking a chance to rewrite their stories. Jasmin’s dedication lies in being an advocate for second chances and advocating for those who need it most.

Lakeland Barnes

Community Organizer

Lakeland Barnes brings more than a decade of experience in the nonprofit sector and over ten years of working within government systems, where she developed expertise in policy, governance, and community engagement. With a background in political science, she has spent the past seven years focused on advocacy and civic engagement, equipping communities with the tools to drive meaningful change.

As both a professional and a mother, Lakeland is deeply committed to ensuring that historically marginalized voices are heard in the decisions that shape their lives. Her work bridges people and institutions, amplifies underrepresented perspectives, and fosters lasting civic participation—all grounded in her belief that advocacy is a calling rooted in service, justice, and equity.

Shanequa King

Workforce Development Coordinator

Shanequa King serves as ReNforce’s Workforce Development Coordinator, bringing more than 15 years of experience in logistics, data analysis, and operations. As a current business owner and justice-impacted professional, she blends professional expertise with lived experience to design structured workforce strategies that expand access to second-chance opportunities and long-term economic mobility.

Her work focuses on talent development, employer engagement, and building operational systems that align individuals with sustainable career pathways. Beyond leading workforce initiatives, Shanequa contributes to strategic planning efforts that strengthen partnerships and broaden community impact. Currently pursuing a degree in Acquisitions & Contract Management, she is deepening her expertise in procurement strategy, compliance, and systems oversight, positioning her at the intersection of operations and community advancement.

Outside of her professional leadership, Shanequa is a proud mother to Ken’Nyse and Reginald, and their family dog, Fudge. 

She lives by the belief: “No matter where you have been, you deserve the chance to rise, rebuild, and thrive.”

Crystal Ware

Operations Coordinator

Crystal Ware, an Augusta native, serves as Operations Coordinator at ReNforce, bringing both dedication and experience to her community-focused role. Her background as a local business owner and former 4-H Program Assistant shaped her passion for developing leadership, life skills, and resilience in others.

Crystal’s entrepreneurial drive and commitment to equity guide her work with justice-impacted individuals. She excels at building connections, fostering collaboration, and ensuring ReNforce’s initiatives run smoothly and effectively.

With a focus on creating second chances and strengthening opportunities, Crystal works each day to help build a more inclusive and empowered future for all.